For many people, animals are a big part of everyday life.
From the ongoing love of pet ownership to the occasional run in with wildlife as our subdivisions expand ever farther, the Ontario SPCA is there to help.
The Bradford Barn opened its doors Friday to host Fur Fest, a fundraising event in support of the Ontario SPCA, headlined by Barrie native, two-time Canadian Country Music Award-winning Male Artist of the Year and Juno Award winner, Jason McCoy.
Recognizing that these services come at a cost, and having adopted their dogs through the Ontario SPCA, venue owners, Jim and Jenn Johannessen wanted to give back in a way that was close to heart and home, to a cause they love and support.
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has been Ontario’s animal charity since 1873.
They provide services and advice to help pet owners ensure the best possible life for their pets. They take in rescues, animals without homes and strays.
They also provide these animals with medicine, day-to-day care and any required surgery needed to help them find their new forever homes.
At Friday’s event, in addition to the great country music, there was live poker, hot food and a craft beer tasting.
With Fur Fest being the first of what organizers hope will become an annual event, proceeds from the night will go to support the Ontario SPCA, specifically, local animals with the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
“Each area of the Ontario SPCA holds their own fundraising events throughout the year to help finance their operations,” explained Cam Lund, manager of community development at the Ontario SPCA.
“The GTA area includes the Ontario SPCA locations in Stouffville, Alliston, Barrie, Richmond Hill, and Markham,” said Lund.
While it’s still too early to tally the exact amount raised for the Ontario SPCA, Jim Johannessen of the Bradford Barn already has his sights set on the future.
The Bradford Barn has been licensed for about a month and a half and is hoping to earn the support of the local community.
“We want to be strong in the community,” said Johannessen, “We plan on doing more in the community with other charity events in the future,” he said. “This is our first charity event with the SPCA, we just love what they do.
“We want to support this huge cause, so if you weren’t able to make it to the first Fur Fest, try not to miss the next one. This is something we need to grow.”
For anyone wishing to support the Ontario SPCA but wasn’t able to attend Fur Fest, donations can be made through their website here where options are available to support the branch of their choice or the entire organization, as well as to make a one-time contribution or an ongoing support commitment.
A donation of a tribute gift is also an option to commemorate a loved one or family pet.
